(Amy Beth Bennett/South Florida Sun-Sentinel via AP, Pool, File). FILE - In a Wednesday, March 14, 2018 file photo, Nikolas Cruz is lead out of the courtroom after an arraignment hearing at the Broward County Courthouse in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Cruz is...

A commitment under the law would have made it more difficult if not impossible for Nikolas Cruz to obtain a gun legally.

As Florida authorities work to identify the people who died in Thursday's catastrophic bridge collapse, state and federal investigators will begin the task of figuring out how and why the five-day-old span failed.More >>

As Florida authorities work to identify the people who died in Thursday's catastrophic bridge collapse, state and federal investigators will begin the task of figuring out how and why the five-day-old span failed.More >>

JUPITER, Fla. -- The family of Perry Cohen, one of the South Florida boys who went missing at sea on July 24, 2015, has announced the launch of the Perry J. Cohen Foundation.

The not-for-profit foundation was established by Perry's mother Pamela Cohen and his stepfather Nicholas Korniloff.

"The mission of the foundation is to create awareness and education for all individuals around the safe enjoyment of recreational boating, fishing, and water sports. The goal of the foundation is to facilitate a deeper connection between America’s youth and proper boating safety standards," according to a news release.

The foundation will provide an annual scholarship program that will recognize students who plan on furthering their education in Marine Science and Marine Wildlife fields.

The foundation will also look to continue to fund future search-and-rescue efforts for others lost at sea.

The family said in a statement, "During this holiday weekend and on behalf of our entire family, we want to thank the countless people, volunteers, private pilots, boaters and organizations like the USCG, Tequesta Police Department & Fire Department, US Navy, Jupiter Police Department, FWC and so many others that helped in the search and rescue efforts of our beloved son Perry and his dear friend. It goes without saying that we continue to remain humbled by the millions of people that sent and continue to send us their thoughts and prayers during the darkest days we have ever encountered. For our dear friends, neighbors, community, business colleagues, and family members who continue to stand by us since day one - we are forever grateful for your compassion and love - and wish that you and your loved ones enjoyed this Thanksgiving Holiday and the upcoming holiday season. We are forever thankful for all of you."

To get more information on the Perry J. Cohen Foundation, visit facebook.com/perryjcohen and follow them on Instagram.

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